The 17 Best Things to Do in Amman, Jordan
Experience the vibrant energy, ancient history, and dynamic culture of Amman with these top insider recommendations.
Bustling with history and contemporary charm, Amman is Jordan’s vibrant capital and a city that seamlessly weaves its ancient past with modern urban life. Visitors can spend days exploring Roman ruins, savoring authentic Jordanian cuisine, shopping for handicrafts, or enjoying the lively music and cafe scene. Here, we detail the top 17 things to do in Amman, so you can experience the best of this dynamic Middle Eastern city.
1. Enjoy Dinner and a Show on Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street is Amman’s most iconic thoroughfare and a lively hub after sunset. Stop by the rebuilt Rainbow Art House Theater for independent films and local performances. The street comes alive with colorful shisha cafes and vibrant galleries, such as Salam Kanaan Gallery, offering a homey space where you might even play the piano.
- Sample Jordanian street food from vendors lining the street.
- Relax in cozy nooks found in art galleries and cafes.
- Walk to the end of Rainbow Street for stairs down to Downtown and the impressive Grand Husseini Mosque.
On Friday evenings in summer, Rainbow Street transforms into the open-air Souq Jara, where you can browse handmade crafts under striped canopies while enjoying a festive atmosphere.
2. Wander Ancient Ruins at Amman Citadel
Perched atop the city’s highest hill, Amman Citadel (Jabal al-Qal’a) provides sweeping views and a time capsule of Amman’s layered history. Walk among:
- Neolithic shards dating back before 5000 BCE
- The grand Roman Temple of Hercules and its massive archway
- Byzantine and Islamic-era remnants, including palaces and churches
- A small museum with well-preserved artifacts like Ammonite burial vessels and statues
Don’t miss the colossal marble fingers—a remnant of a huge Roman statue. Allow plenty of time to explore the grounds and the garden plaza.
Insider tip: Nearby, discover Jasmine House—a day-time art gallery described as Amman’s best Italian eatery by night. Its cozy atmosphere and hidden location make it worth the extra effort to find.
3. Uncover Ancient Wonders at the Jordan Museum
The Jordan Museum showcases the full sweep of the region’s history, from prehistory to the modern era. The museum’s strikingly modern design contrasts with its priceless artifacts, including:
- The haunting, 9000-year-old Ain Ghazal statues—some of the world’s oldest human representations
- Selectable Dead Sea Scrolls fragments
- Artifacts from the Nabataean, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic periods
Display rooms are arranged chronologically, making it easy to travel through time as you wander from one era to the next. Across the street, stop by Amman City Hall if you have time for a quick exhibition and a coffee.
4. Experience History at the Roman Theatre
The 6000-seat Roman Theatre is one of Amman’s most evocative sites, built in the 2nd century CE beneath the city’s ancient acropolis. It remains remarkably well preserved and is still used today for concerts and cultural gatherings. Beside it you’ll find:
- The smaller Roman Odeon (500 seats), perfect for more intimate performances
- The Hashemite Plaza, a wide square popular with families and filled with remnants of Roman columns
- The Nyphaeum, ruins of an ancient Roman bathhouse close by
The setting—encircled by bustling streets and modern life—emphasizes Amman’s unique blend of old and new. Try to catch a performance to appreciate the theatre’s natural acoustics.
5. Explore the Bustling Al Balad (Downtown Amman)
Al Balad is Amman’s historic core, a bustling mesh of street markets, heritage buildings, and lively squares. Join a walking tour departing from the Roman Theatre to:
- Stroll vibrant souks filled with spices, sweets, and handicrafts
- Admire colorful stairways and murals, popular photo stops for locals and tourists
- Duck into side streets for window shopping and people-watching
Don’t miss the artisanal shops, lively café terraces, and warm hospitality that are the hallmarks of this area.
6. Relax in the Greenery of Al Hussein Park
With limited green spaces in the city, Al Hussein Park is an oasis for locals and visitors alike. This expansive public park is perfect for:
- Jogging, picnicking, and casual strolls, especially on Fridays
- Joining or watching friendly pick-up football matches
- Visiting the King Hussein Mosque (check visitor hours and dress codes for entry)
Al Hussein Park’s culture and sports center, integrated fountains, and floral displays offer a tranquil contrast to the city’s urban bustle.
7. Taste Jordanian Cuisine
No visit to Amman is complete without sampling its culinary scene. Venture into downtown and trendy neighborhoods to try:
- Falafel: Savory chickpea balls, a local staple, often found for under one Jordanian dinar
- Mansaf: The national dish—tender lamb cooked in a tangy yogurt sauce, served atop rice
- Knafeh: Sweet, cheesy pastry soaked in syrup, best enjoyed fresh from famous dessert bars
- Street food: Grab fresh juice, shawarma, and other quick bites from food stalls
For a unique experience, try a restaurant with a rooftop view of the hills, especially at sunset.
8. Marvel at Amman’s Street Art and Galleries
Art lovers will appreciate Amman’s thriving creative community, visible in:
- Eye-catching murals along stairs and building facades in Jabal al-Weibdeh and at gallery spaces throughout the city
- Galleries such as Jasmine House and Salam Kanaan Gallery, each with unique atmospheres
- Monthly exhibitions, artist talks, and events that showcase local talent
Combine your gallery tour with coffee in Amman’s stylish cafes for the full creative immersion.
9. Discover the Ancient Gold Souk and Jewelry Shops
Downtown Amman is famous for its intricately designed gold souk, where generations of jewelers have crafted signature Jordanian pieces. Wander the narrow alleyways to:
- Watch artisans at work in tiny workshops
- Shop for gold filigree, silver ornaments, and modern jewelry
- Enjoy the lively vibe of this old trading district
The market is bustling and authentic, so expect a warm, family-run atmosphere.
10. Browse Books and Meet Minds at Amman’s Bookshops
For a taste of Amman’s intellectual scene, head to local bookshops such as:
- Books@Cafe: A bookstore-café hybrid perfect for reading, relaxing, and meeting creatives
- Mahall al-Kutub: A tiny, atmospheric bookshop filled with both Arabic and English titles
- Pop-up literary events and readings hosted throughout the year
Linger over a coffee and talk poetry or politics with new friends—this is where Amman’s thinkers gather.
11. Immerse Yourself in Jabal al-Weibdeh
One of Amman’s oldest and greenest neighborhoods, Jabal al-Weibdeh, is known for its bohemian feel and laid-back vibe. Explore:
- Chic and quirky cafes, each with its own unique decor
- Art galleries, design studios, and cultural spaces hosting regular exhibitions
- Local boutiques selling ceramics, jewelry, and art
The leafy streets and relaxed pace make this area perfect for an afternoon wander.
12. Visit the King Abdullah I Mosque
Distinctive with its blue dome, the King Abdullah I Mosque is open to non-Muslim visitors outside of prayer times. Inside, you’ll find striking Islamic architecture and a museum.
- Dress modestly; loaner cloaks may be provided for visitors
- Learn about religious and contemporary Jordanian life through exhibits
This mosque is a prominent feature of Amman’s skyline and a meaningful stop for those interested in local culture and religion.
13. Shop Handmade Treasures at Souq Jara
From June to August on Fridays, Rainbow Street’s side road becomes Souq Jara, Amman’s beloved open-air summer market. Under billowing tents, discover:
- Handmade crafts, embroidery, jewelry, art, and vintage finds
- Locally made foods, pickles, and sweet treats
- A festival-like food court at one end and music performances scattered throughout
Planning tip: Most stalls accept only cash, so be prepared and enjoy the lively, welcoming atmosphere.
14. Feel the Beat of Live Music in Amman
Amman’s nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse. Top spots to catch live music include:
- Corner’s Pub: Live bands every Saturday (often with open mics)
- Maestro: Monday jam sessions and weekend concerts
- The Cellar: Great for cutting-edge electronic music
- C.LING Rooftop: Crowd-pleasing pop and dance, plus occasional live bands
For the full experience, sample local brews and mingle with Amman’s creative crowd.
15. Sip Traditional Jordanian Tea and Coffee
Throughout the city, you’ll find bustling tea and coffee shops offering:
- Tea with fresh mint: A refreshing local favorite
- Arabic coffee (gahwa): Spiced with cardamom and served from ornate pots
- Cozy environments, often filled with lively discussions
Enjoy your drink with a view from one of Downtown’s rooftop terraces, or while people-watching from a street-side cafe.
16. Take in a Sunset Over Amman’s Seven Hills
Built on seven hills, Amman rewards sunset seekers. Best viewing spots include:
- Rooftop cafes in Jabal Amman or Jabal al-Weibdeh
- The Citadel, offering a panoramic 360-degree view of the city at golden hour
- Random street staircases with westward-facing vistas
Bring your camera—the spectacle of the setting sun over Amman’s layered skyline is unforgettable.
17. Walk the City’s Colorful Stairways and Urban Streets
Amman is famous for its steep staircases, many of which are beautifully decorated with tile, murals, and mosaics. Notable stairways include:
- The steps linking Rainbow Street and Downtown—ideal for photos
- Painted steps in Jabal al-Weibdeh
- Side alleys off Al Balad bustling with street life
Take time to stroll, discover hidden cafes, and chat with locals along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best way to get around Amman?
A: Taxis are abundant and affordable, though traffic can be heavy. Walking is ideal in areas such as Downtown, Rainbow Street, and Jabal al-Weibdeh.
Q: Is Amman safe for tourists?
A: Amman is widely considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates. Practice usual precautions in busy markets and late at night, as in any large city.
Q: What should I wear in Amman?
A: Dress is generally modest—cover knees and shoulders, especially when visiting religious sites. Local people are welcoming and cosmopolitan, but respectful attire is always appreciated.
Q: When is the best time to visit Amman?
A: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the mildest climate for exploring the city on foot.
Plan Your Amman Adventure
Whether you crave ancient ruins, lively local markets, or modern nightlife, Amman offers something for every traveler. Explore its diverse neighborhoods, savor its flavors, and immerse yourself in the unique energy that defines Jordan’s capital city.
